Funcom’s ambitious survival MMO Dune: Awakening is now officially set to launch on June 10, 2025, with early access beginning June 5 for players who pre-order the Deluxe or Ultimate Editions. This strategic delay from the originally slated May release wasn’t just about polish—it reflects the studio’s commitment to community feedback following a major beta weekend and ongoing closed tests.
Set in a bold alternate timeline where Paul Atreides was never born, the game places players in the middle of a high-stakes power struggle on Arrakis. The development team has been transparent and agile, using player insight to refine systems like combat, survival mechanics, and exploration. The upcoming livestream, “Beyond the Beta: A Glimpse of Mid-to-Endgame,” airing May 28, promises deeper reveals on key late-game features like the Deep Desert and the political intrigue of the Landsraad.
In the meantime, fans can dive into the free Character Creator and Benchmark tool now available on Steam, allowing them to build their custom avatars and test system readiness ahead of time. The game supports full BattlEye anti-cheat compatibility on Steam Deck, with promising early benchmarks indicating smooth 60 FPS performance for on-the-go desert survival.
Funcom has confirmed that Dune: Awakening will launch as a full game (not Early Access) with no subscription requirement, supported post-launch through free updates and optional paid DLCs. With MMO depth, survival intensity, and a richly adapted Dune setting, Awakening is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most ambitious and community-driven titles.
Key Takeaways
- Dune: Awakening launches on June 10, 2025 for PC, with early access beginning June 5 for Deluxe and Ultimate Edition buyers.
- Players can download and use the Character Creator on Steam now, ahead of the full game’s release.
- The survival MMO immerses players in the harsh desert world of Arrakis, featuring iconic Dune lore and the vital spice resource.
Dune: Awakening Release Details
Fans of the Dune universe can finally mark their calendars for this highly anticipated survival MMO. The game will officially launch on June 10, 2025, with early access starting June 5 for select editions.
Launch Date and Pre-Order Information
Dune: Awakening will cost $49.99 for the Standard Edition, with higher tiers granting early access and exclusive content. Players can secure their place on Arrakis early by pre-ordering the Deluxe or Ultimate Editions to gain access five days ahead of the official launch.
The Character Creator and Benchmark Mode are already live on Steam, giving players the chance to build their avatars and test their hardware performance ahead of time.
Availability Across Platforms
Dune: Awakening will debut on PC via Steam. Console versions for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S have been confirmed but do not yet have release dates. Funcom has stated they will launch after the PC version, ensuring a staggered rollout with quality control for each platform.
This third-person MMO experience will let players explore a vast open-world Arrakis through large-scale PvP zones, environmental challenges like sandstorms, and strategic faction battles.
Technical Insights and Gameplay Features
Dune: Awakening uses Unreal Engine 5 and combines open-world survival gameplay with MMO systems. Dynamic weather, base-building, and player-driven economy mechanics will shape how players interact with the world of Arrakis.
System Requirements and Performance
Minimum specs include a GTX 1060, Intel i7-10700K or AMD Ryzen 3 1200 CPU, 16GB RAM, and 100GB of storage. For best performance, an RTX 3070 or better is recommended, with DLSS 4 supported for frame rate enhancements. Benchmark Mode helps test your setup in advance.
Exploring Arrakis and Gameplay Elements
Gameplay centers around resource survival, faction control, exploration via ornithopters and sandbikes, and strategic PvP. Combat blends ranged weaponry and melee, including iconic frameblades. Sandworms, storms, and shifting dunes dynamically alter gameplay.
Character Customization and Lore Integration
Character creation includes selecting a background, mentor (Mentat, Swordmaster, etc.), and caste, all of which affect early gameplay and skills. Customization tools offer fine control over facial structure, gear, and affiliations with major factions like the Bene Gesserit or Harkonnens.
Players who pre-order will gain access to exclusive cosmetic items, including skins and companions like the Desert Mouse. The game leans heavily into lore with features like the Gom Jabbar test during character setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Dune: Awakening be available for Xbox?
Funcom plans to release Dune: Awakening for Xbox Series X|S after the PC launch. A specific release date has not yet been provided.
What is the release date for Dune: Awakening on PS5?
PlayStation 5 players can expect the game after the PC release. Funcom has not yet announced an official PS5 release date.
How can I participate in the Dune: Awakening beta?
A large-scale beta weekend occurred from May 9–12, 2025. Additional beta opportunities may be announced via Funcom’s official site and social channels as launch nears.
Is there gameplay footage available for Dune: Awakening?
Yes, multiple trailers and dev diaries are now available, showcasing exploration, base-building, and combat. These videos also include commentary from Creative Director Joel Bylos and insights into Arrakis’ open world design.
What is the price of Dune: Awakening?
The Standard Edition is priced at $49.99, while the Deluxe and Ultimate Editions offer early access and additional digital bonuses.
